WHAT AILS YOU?

CONGESTION

There’s no need to resort to syrups and pills when you have eucalyptus essential oil. Rub a few drops of it on your hands and cup them over your face before inhaling, or inhale the scent directly from the bottle, for rapid congestion relief. SEE HERE

HEADACHE

Hold off on the ibuprofen, and massage a drop of peppermint essential oil into your temples to ease the throbbing. SEE HERE

INSOMNIA

Instead of taking sleeping pills, sprinkle lavender essential oil on your pillowcase to help you nod off. SEE HERE

Essential oils offer simple, effective, natural remedies that treat the root cause of disease, and not symptoms. Say good-bye to over-prescribed modern drug-based therapies, and experience for yourself the timeless healing power of essential oils. An A-Z list of essential oils healing recipes begins HERE

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What Ails You?

Introduction

CHAPTER ONE
Let Plants Be Thy Medicine

A Brief History

What Are Essential Oils?

The Benefits of Essential Oils

How Essential Oils Are Produced

Understanding Aromatherapy

Essentials of Essential Oils: 15 Things You Should Know

CHAPTER TWO
Getting Started with Essential Oils

Not All Essential Oils Are Equal

Choosing Which Type of Essential Oils to Use

Tools and Equipment

Storing Tips and Instructions

What Are Carrier Oils?

Safety First

CHAPTER THREE
Essential Oil Application Methods

Aromatic

Topical

CHAPTER FOUR
Natural Remedies for Common Ailments

Acid Reflux

Acne

ADD/ADHD

Addiction Support

Aging Skin

Allergies

Animal Bites

Anxiety

Arthritis

Asthma

Athlete’s Foot

Back Pain

Bad Breath

Bee Stings

Bleeding Wound

Blister

Bloating

Body Odor

Boil

Brittle Hair

Broken Capillaries

Bronchitis

Bruise

Bug Bites

Burn

Canker Sore

Chapped Lips

Chicken Pox

Chilblains

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Cold

Colic

Congestion

Constipation

Cough

Cradle Cap

Croup

Cuts and Scrapes

Cysts

Dandruff

Dental Care

Depression

Dermatitis

Diaper Rash

Diarrhea

Dry Skin

Ear Infection

Eczema

Edema

Emotional Wellness

Erectile Dysfunction

Fainting

Fibromyalgia

Flatulence

Fleas

Flu

Folliculitis

Foot Odor

Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD)

Gingivitis

Grief

Gum Disease

Hair Loss

Hay Fever

Headache

Healthy Heart Function

Healthy Liver Function

Heartburn

Heat Rash

Hemorrhoids

Hiccups

Hives

Immune Support

Indigestion

Infection

Inflammation

Ingrown Hair

Insect Repellent

Insomnia

Intestinal Parasites

Jock Itch

Keratosis Pilaris

Knee Pain

Laryngitis

Leg Cramps

Lice

Low Energy

Low Testosterone Support

Lupus

Lyme Disease

Menopause

Mental Alertness

Mental Health

Migraine

Morning Sickness

Motion Sickness

Mud Fever

Multiple Sclerosis

Mumps

Muscle Aches

Nail Care

Nail Fungus

Nasal Polyps

Natural Energy

Nausea

Neck Pain

Nervousness

Norovirus

Nosebleed

Oil Pulling

Oily Scalp

Oily Skin

Pain Management

Parkinson’s Disease

Periodontal Disease

Plantar Fasciitis

Pneumonia

Poison Ivy

Postpartum

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Prostatitis

Psoriasis

Radiation Therapy

Razor Bumps

Restless Legs Syndrome

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Ringworm

Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever

Rosacea

Runny Nose

Scabies

Scalp Psoriasis

Scarring

Sciatica

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)

Shingles

Shin Splints

Sinusitis

Skin Tags

Slow Metabolism

Smoking Cessation

Sore Throat

Spider Bites

Sprain

Stiff Neck

Stomach Flu

Strep Throat

Stress Management

Stretch Marks

Sunburn

Swelling

Swimmer’s Ear

Teething

Temper Tantrums

Tendinitis

Tennis Elbow

Tension Headache

Thrush

Tick Bites

Tinnitus

Toothache

Urinary Tract Infection

Varicose Veins

Warts

Wasp Stings

Weight-Loss Support

Wrinkles

Yeast Infection

CHAPTER FIVE
Nature’s Pharmacy of Essential Oils

Allspice

Aniseed

Basil

Bay

Benzoin

Bergamot

Birch

Black Pepper

Cajeput

Calamus

Camphor

Caraway

Cardamom

Carrot Seed

Cassia

Cedarwood

Chamomile (German)

Chamomile (Roman)

Cinnamon

Citronella

Clary Sage

Clove

Coriander

Cypress

Dill

Elemi

Eucalyptus

Fennel

Fir Needle

Frankincense

Geranium

Ginger

Grapefruit

Helichrysum

Hyssop

Jasmine

Juniper

Lavandin

Lavender

Lemon

Lemon Eucalyptus

Lemongrass

Lemon Verbena

Lime

Mandarin

Manuka

Marjoram

Melissa

Myrrh

Neroli

Niaouli

Nutmeg

Orange

Oregano

Palmarosa

Patchouli

Peppermint

Petitgrain

Pine

Rose

Rose Geranium

Rosemary

Rosewood

Sage

Sandalwood

Spearmint

Spikenard

Spruce

Tagetes

Tangerine

Tea Tree

Thyme

Valerian

Vetiver

Ylang-Ylang

Glossary

Ailments & Oils Quick Reference Guide

Resources

Know Your Essential Oil Brands

INTRODUCTION

M odern medicine saves countless lives each day. With it come such marvels as medical imaging, an unprecedented understanding of human genetics, incredible trauma treatments and surgical techniques, and much more. Even so, conventional medicine remains ineffective in many areas of our health and healing; invasive treatments commonly cause severe side effects, and preventive care is too often overlooked. Where many mainstream treatments fail, natural medicine often excels. Essential oils play a vital role in natural or complementary medicine, and because they are safe, simple to administer, and noninvasive, they are ideal for inclusion in nearly any self-care plan.

Fortunately, mainstream medicine and modern techniques aren’t the only options available to us. For thousands of years, essential oils and other natural remedies were the only medicines available, proving themselves time and again in daily life. What worked for healers past can and should work just as well for us today.

Every aspiring essential oil practitioner can benefit from a handbook, but herbal compendiums can be confusing, and many books on essential oils are equally mind-boggling. This one aims to inform you while being easier to navigate and simpler to use than any other guide. With practical, factual, in-depth information on using essential oils to treat more than 170 common maladies, this on-demand reference has been designed so that you can find the information you want when you need it.

If you’re new to using essential oils, begin by reading Chapter One , which contains a comprehensive introduction to essential oils and aromatherapy.

What are essential oils, and how are they produced?

What is the difference between fragrance oils and essential oils?

What are the safest ways to use essential oils?

In addition to answering these and many other questions, you’ll also learn about the basic tools required to get started with essential oils.

Look in Chapter Four to find the remedies that will bring relief. This section contains remedies for a wide range of common health complaints, arranged in alphabetical order for easy navigation. Here you will find details about why each remedy works along with applicable safety precautions and other vital information.

Chapter Five provides an alphabetized list of 75 of the most useful essential oils. Included are critical facts about each essential oil, including its common name, Latin name, complete information concerning its medicinal use, and detailed information for blending it with other essential oils to enhance its efficacy. You’ll find label safety warnings, as well, so you’ll know which essential oils are safe for you to use and which you should avoid.

In the chapters ahead, you will:

Gain the understanding you need to start using essential oils right away.

Learn the facts about essential oils use and treatment. Medical, scientific, and safety facts are found throughout the book, and are formatted for ease of identification.

Receive easy-to-follow instructions for treating common illnesses and minor injuries with a variety of basic but powerful and effective homemade remedies.

People turn to essential oils for one, two, or perhaps several reasons—to take charge of their own health, to explore natural alternatives to pharmaceuticals, to save money, and to ensure preparedness in the face of emergencies and disasters. Whether your goal is to gain expertise in using essential oils or to simply improve your ability to care for your own health, this book will be an indispensable resource.

Essential oils are beneficial to
the body, the mind and spirit,
and even your wallet.

B efore factories produced medicines, people relied on natural remedies made with plants. Essential oils are among the most powerful healing agents the natural environment has to offer. Derived from the leaves, roots, flowers, and bark of plants, essential oils are aromatic compounds that form deep within plant cells, providing plants with protection from disease, deterring hungry insects, and making plants more appealing to pollinators. Essential oils likewise offer the most natural way for you to prevent and treat ailments of your own, as well as enhance health and promote total well-being. These oils were sacred to ancient Egyptians and central to India’s Ayurveda practices, and they were used extensively by Roman and Greek physicians, who ultimately shared their knowledge with scholars from other parts of the globe.

A BRIEF HISTORY

The pharmaceutical industry as we know it today got its start in the Middle Ages. The first documented drugstore was opened in Baghdad in the year 754, and such stores gained popularity throughout the Islamic world in subsequent years. Formularies and herb shops selling remedies of all kinds were common throughout Medieval Europe and Asia. The late 1800s saw pharmaceutical companies—including Parke-Davis, Squibb, Lilly, The Upjohn Company, Searle, and Abbott—spring up in the United States. Other pioneering drug companies included Pfizer, Bayer, and Johnson & Johnson. Many medicines produced by these companies were, and still are, plant-based; many others are synthetic.

By the dawn of the 20th century, many people stopped using whole-plant remedies and essential oils in favor of convenient preparations offered by drug manufacturers. Important life-saving discoveries, including penicillin and insulin, changed the face of health care by the end of the 1930s, and plants as medicine were largely relegated to the realm of folk medicine.

Drugs were in short supply during the Second World War, when Dr. Jean Valnet made a discovery that reminded people of the power of essential oils. After running out of antibiotics, he began to use eucalyptus essential oil as a bactericide, saving lives as a result of his willingness to step outside the pharmaceutical box.

You, too, can take advantage of nature’s pharmacy of healing plants rather than relying solely upon modern medicine. Essential oils offer versatility, portability, potency, and safety—something that cannot be said of all plant-based remedies.

Prescription drugs and over-the-counter (OTC) medications are often pricey. A 2010 AARP study showed a 41 percent increase in the cost of name-brand drugs during the five-year period between 2004 and 2009. Retail prices have continued to escalate since then, with the cost of 73 popular brands increasing by a shocking 73 percent between 2007 and 2014.

WHAT ARE ESSENTIAL OILS?

Pure essential oils are highly concentrated compounds that have been pressed or distilled from plants. Unlike fixed oils such as vegetable cooking oils, they do not have a fatty or oily component. Called essential because they carry the distinctive fragrance or essence of the plant or plant part from which they are made, these oils are used primarily for aromatherapy, and also for scenting soaps, candles, and other products. Some essential oils, including peppermint and cinnamon, are used for flavoring products such as candy and toothpaste, and others are used in formulating household cleaners.

BASIC ESSENTIAL OIL TERMINOLOGY

As you make your way through this book and other resources, you’ll notice terminology that may be unfamiliar. Here are short explanations of some of the most frequently-used vocabulary. (For additional terms, see the glossary here .)

aromatherapy: The practice of using natural aromatic substances, including essential oils, for their physical and psychological therapeutic benefits.

botanical name: A specific Latin name that distinguishes variants of plants that share the same common name.

carrier oil: An oil used for diluting an essential oil prior to use.

common name: A plant’s everyday name.

diffuser: A device used for releasing essential oil molecules into the air. Various models are available commercially.

dilution: The act of diluting an essential oil with a carrier oil at a specific ratio.

food grade: An essential oil considered safe for use in food by the FDA.

fragrance: An aroma. Products labeled as fragrances are derived by synthetic means and are not essential oils.

herbal: Pertaining to plants.

insoluble: A substance that is not capable of being dissolved in liquid such as water.

neat: Undiluted. Some essential oils are suitable for using neat, while others are not. As you delve deeper into the world of essential oils, you will notice that some practitioners are much more conservative than others, advising readers not to use undiluted essential oils. The choice is yours.

pendant: A necklace made from a variety of materials, such as glass or terra cotta, that you can add your favorite essential oil to and wear throughout the day.

rectification: The process of redistilling certain essential oils to rid them of undesirable constituents.

single oil: An essential oil from only one plant species.

soluble: A substance that is capable of being dissolved in liquid such as water.

synergistic blend: A combination of essential oils that offers more benefits than the same essential oils applied singly.

synthetic: A substance that is unnatural or created in a laboratory. Many commercially produced drugs are synthetic.

volatile: A substance that is unstable and evaporates easily.

THE BENEFITS OF ESSENTIAL OILS

Essential oils are beneficial to the body, the mind and spirit, and even your wallet. They are used to treat conditions ranging from anxiety to shingles as well as to increase overall well-being in myriad ways, many of which are discussed in-depth in subsequent chapters.

All essential oils are adaptogens. An adaptogen is a natural substance that promotes a balancing reaction in the body, improving its ability to overcome stress and fatigue that contribute to disease. Some adaptogens improve healing, some suppress infections, and some accelerate recovery from illness or hasten healing after an injury. Numerous studies have proven that adaptogens have a normalizing effect on all of the body’s functions without causing disruptions or side effects.

Most essential oils are cost-effective. Essential oils are a less costly alternative to drugs produced by pharmaceutical companies. Lavender essential oil, for example, is a popular natural sleep aid and costs less per dose than most commercial sleep aids. It is also a phenomenal substitute for petroleum-based first aid ointments. Peppermint and eucalyptus essential oils are excellent decongestants despite costing just a few pennies per dose. When you choose to use natural botanical compounds to combat common health complaints, you save money instead of contributing to drug company profits.

Many essential oils are analgesics. An analgesic is a substance that acts directly on the nervous system to subdue pain. Clove, peppermint, birch, and thyme essential oils are a few examples of natural, effective analgesics.

Many essential oils are anti-inflammatory. Inflammation is an important part of the body’s natural defense system, promoting healing after exposure to toxins or following an injury. Typical signs of inflammation include swelling, redness, and pain at the affected site. Bergamot, clove, eucalyptus, and thyme essential oils are renowned for their anti-inflammatory properties. In many cases, you will find it’s not necessary to take OTC drugs, since these oils are capable of providing effective relief from inflammation—without the addition of toxic chemicals.

Some essential oils are antiseptics. An antiseptic is an antimicrobial substance that, when applied to living tissue, reduces the risk of infection. Clove, lavender, and tea tree essential oils are among the most powerful of all-natural antiseptics. Not only are these wonderful for use in treating minor injuries, they are also useful for creating natural cleaning products.

Some essential oils promote relaxation and relieve stress. For many, stress is a part of daily life. If you’ve ever been overly stressed, you know how negativity can take over, creating chaos and tension while leading to physical symptoms such as headaches, indigestion, and even itchy, red rashes. Peppermint, rosemary, and ylang-ylang essential oils are excellent choices for stress relief. Others are excellent for promoting relaxation, enhancing meditation, and hastening sleep.

Whether you are suffering from a throbbing headache, sore muscles, dermatitis, fatigue, or another irritating or painful condition, it is likely that an effective essential oil remedy exists. Because essential oils work by targeting the cause of a problem rather than simply addressing symptoms, you are likely to experience rapid relief and steady improvement.

Stop menstrual pain with thyme essential oil. Thyme outperformed ibuprofen in combating menstrual pain, according to a 2014 triple-blind clinical study conducted at Babol University of Medical Sciences in Iran. As proven by researchers from Nara Women’s University in Japan, thyme essential oil inhibits the COX-2 enzyme, which is partly responsible for the body’s pain-producing inflammatory process.

HOW ESSENTIAL OILS ARE PRODUCED

Because plants are complex, essential oils are extracted using several different techniques. Like wine making, essential oil production is both an art and a science. All methods are important, and the value of the finished product depends greatly on the distiller’s experience and on the oil’s intended application.

Steam Distillation

Steam distillation is the most common method for producing essential oils. There are two types of steam distillation:

Steam is injected into a tightly sealed chamber that holds raw plant materials. As the steam strikes the plants, the heat causes small internal sacs to burst. These sacs hold the essential oil, and are the same ones that rupture when you rub an aromatic plant such as lavender, rosemary, or sage between your fingers and catch a strong whiff of its fragrance. Essential oil molecules are minuscule, and are easily transported out of the chamber and into a chilled condenser by the airborne steam. After collection is complete, the essential oil and water are separated.
The whole plant is suspended above a large container of boiling water. The rising steam collects the essential oils and continues upward, where a receptacle catches it and pushes it through a separator. In both methods, the remaining water is normally reserved. Called hydrosol, it is delightfully scented and is used to add fragrance to linen sprays, perfumes, and body care products such as body lotion and facial moisturizer.

Several types of essential oil are best when produced via distillation, as some components are released only after a certain amount of exposure to gentle heat. For example, German chamomile must be steam distilled to allow for the release its anti-inflammatory component, chamulzine. According to the Montana State University’s Northwestern Agricultural Research Center, this compound gives the essential oil its characteristic blue color.

Carbon Dioxide Extraction

There are two primary methods by which essential oils are commonly extracted: carbon dioxide (CO₂ ) distillation and supercritical CO₂ distillation.

Carbon dioxide distillation, or CO₂ extraction, uses carbon dioxide to carry the essential oil away from the raw plant material. In this method, carbon dioxide is chilled to between 35 and 55 degrees Fahrenheit before being blasted through the plant material. This is much like cold-pressing (see here ) in that it yields pure essential oils that have not been even slightly altered by exposure to heat.

In supercritical CO₂ distillation, the carbon dioxide is heated to 87 degrees Fahrenheit before being blown through the plant matter at a much higher speed. Under these intense conditions, the CO₂ is transformed into a heavy vapor that rapidly carries the essential oil away from the inert plant material. As the CO₂ is warm rather than hot, the resulting essential oil is pure and unaltered.

Many manufacturers do not distinguish between cold CO₂ distillation and supercritical CO₂ distillation when labeling the essential oils they produce, since both processes produce excellent finished products. Frankincense and myrrh essential oils are usually produced via CO₂ distillation, as are other spicy-smelling oils such as clove, black pepper, and ginger.

Some producers pride themselves on offering two additional types of CO₂ -distilled essential oils: CO₂ totals and CO₂ selects.

CO₂ totals are so named because they contain large amounts of plant matter, including resins, waxes, and color compounds, which are normally discarded during the manufacturing process. CO₂ totals cannot normally be poured without being warmed; their consistency is typically pasty or waxy.

CO₂ selects are thicker than most other essential oils because a portion of the plant’s natural waxes, resins, and color compounds are included in the finished product. These essential oils may normally be poured without prior warming.

Both CO₂ total and select essential oil are more highly concentrated than standard essential oil. Manufacturers typically recommend that you dilute them by 50 to 65 percent before use. If you happen to choose CO₂ total or select essential oils, ensure efficacy and safety by following the producer’s specific recommendations for use.

Cold-Pressing

The process of cold-pressing, or expression, is used exclusively for obtaining essential oils from citrus fruits. This simple method involves placing the aromatic portion of the fruit’s rind in a press at 120 degrees Fahrenheit to extract the essential oil that gives citrus fruits their characteristic scents.

Enfleurage

Hot enfleurage, which calls for the combination of fat or fatty oil with whole flowers, is the oldest-known method of essential oil extraction. Still used by some exclusive perfume manufacturers, the process involves placing blossoms in a shallow layer of warmed fatty oil that absorbs the essential oils from the petals. As the flowers wilt, they are replaced with new ones until the oil has been completely saturated with essential oil. The essential oil is then extracted with a solvent such as alcohol, and the remaining fat or oil is used to impart fragrance to soap and other products.

Solvent Extraction

Essential oils extracted with the help of chemical solvents such as methylene chloride, hexane, or benzene are called absolutes . In this method, the solvent is used in place of water or CO₂ . Much of the solvent evaporates during the initial phase of extraction, and the remainder is spun off in a centrifuge or removed via a vacuum. However, solvent extraction leaves minute traces of the extraction chemicals in the essential oil, and noted aromatherapist Robert Tisserand points out that there is some concern about whether these minute traces are acceptable for use in aromatherapy.

UNDERSTANDING AROMATHERAPY

The word aroma is derived from the Greek word for spice and is broadly used to denote fragrance. Aromatherapy is a form of alternative medicine that draws upon the healing power of plants, with a strong focus on essential oils. In aromatherapy, these oils are used for improving physical and mental health as well as for positively influencing mood and cognitive function.

The term aromatherapy is a bit of a misnomer, giving the impression that this form of medicine is based solely upon scent. Rather, in aromatherapy, essential oils are inhaled for the physical and psychological benefits that occur as the oil’s molecules stimulate the brain. They are also applied topically, allowing for absorption through the skin and into the bloodstream. Because essential oils vary in potency, it is vital that you follow instructions for dilution prior to use. In addition, more is not necessarily better; a small amount of essential oil is usually plenty.

Because aromatherapy is noninvasive, it is often suitable for use alongside other forms of therapy. Holistic practitioners, who seek to treat the whole patient rather than focusing solely on the symptoms and the illness, are pioneers in using aromatherapy in conjunction with Western medical treatments, homeopathic remedies, herbal medicine, Reiki, meditation, and more. Like these practitioners, you may do the same, using aromatherapy to complement other treatments.

Although merchandise that contains synthetic ingredients is often marketed as aromatherapy, products that contain artificial components of any kind are frowned upon by professionals.

Always read product ingredient lists. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate the use of the term aromatherapy on product labels or in product advertising. Any product, even one containing synthetic ingredients, can be marketed as suitable for use in aromatherapy. Check ingredients carefully when choosing products containing essential oils for holistic use.

ESSENTIALS OF ESSENTIAL OILS: 15 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW

As you delve deeper into the world of essential oils, you’ll discover that the amount of information available can be overwhelming. Keep these basic facts and guidelines in mind as you learn.

Essential oils aren’t oils at all. Despite their appearance and that oil is part of their name, the substances we call essential oils are not technically oils, as they do not contain fatty acids. Instead, essential oils are concentrated organic elements with potent medicinal qualities.
Fragrance oils are not essential oils. Even if a bottle is labeled as natural fra-grance, it is not an essential oil if it also contains the terms fragrance oil, fragrance , or perfume .
Essential oils are highly concentrated. One hundred pounds of lavender produce a single pound of lavender essential oil, and two tons of Bulgarian roses produce just one pound of rose essential oil. A single drop of essential oil may contain the power of several plants.
If you are pregnant, skip essential oils altogether during the first trimester . In addition, many essential oils are emmenagogues, which stimulate blood flow in the uterus, bringing on menstruation. Specific safety details about all essential oils are included in Chapter Five .
Keep essential oils out of reach of children. While certain essential oils are ideal for use by everyone in the family, many are not suitable for use by children, and several are toxic if swallowed.
Conduct a patch test prior to using an unfamiliar essential oil. To prevent painful skin irritation, conduct a patch test prior to applying an unfamiliar essential oil or a product that contains something you haven’t used in the past. Combine a single drop of the essential oil with ½ teaspoon of the carrier oil of your choice, then rub it on the inside portion of your upper arm. Wait a few hours to ensure no itching or redness develops.
If you are allergic to a plant, you are allergic to its essential oil. Since essential oil is a highly concentrated form of a plant, if you are allergic to the plant, such as chamomile, roses, or thyme, avoid using the essential oil in any capacity.
Watch out for adulteration. When purchasing an essential oil from an unfamiliar source, check to ensure it is pure before using it for aromatherapy. To do this, place a single drop of the oil on a piece of paper. It should evaporate within an hour at the most, and it should not leave a ring of oil behind. This test works for all oils except myrrh and patchouli, and absolutes such as jasmine, rose, and vanilla. Always purchase essential oils from reputable sources.
Heat and sunlight destroy essential oils over time. Don’t store your essential oils near a heat source or in direct sunlight, as repeated exposure to heat and sunlight cause deterioration. Keep them somewhere dark and relatively cool, such as inside a box that is in turn stored in a closet.
Essential oils generally retain potency for five years or longer. When stored in a cool, dark place, essential oils retain potency for five to ten years on average. Citrus oils are the exception; these retain full potency for a maximum of two years.
Dark-colored glass bottles are best. Most manufacturers package their essential oils in dark-colored amber or sometimes blue glass bottles. When creating essential oil blends, making massage oil, or concocting another recipe that will be stored for more than a few days, package the resulting product in a dark-colored glass bottle to prevent long-term exposure to any type of light. Glass is preferable to metal, as it will not react with the oils, and glazed ceramic containers will also work. Do not use plastic bottles; the essential oils will break down the plastic, sullying your essential oil and potentially creating a mess.
Save by starting small. You might be tempted to rush out and purchase an entire apothecary’s worth of essential oils, but doing so represents quite an investment. Save money and avoid becoming overwhelmed by selecting a few of the most versatile essential oils at first, then work your way toward expanding your inventory. Some of the best essential oils to start with are lavender, lemon, peppermint, rose geranium, rosemary, orange, and tea tree.
Because they are natural, essential oils cannot be patented. Since essential oils are so effective, you may wonder why they are not part of mainstream medicine. The answer is simple: Pharmaceutical companies cannot patent essential oils, and because drug companies cannot make large profits from them, essential oils are not extensively studied in mainstream laboratories. The majority of what is known about essential oils comes from information passed down over thousands of years of experimentation and personal use, so your doctor is not likely to recommend a natural essential oil therapy over a pharmaceutical one.
Opinions concerning the recommended use of essential oils vary. Most essential oils can be used without reservation, a few are clearly unsafe, and some are hotly debated, even among professionals belonging to the same organization. If you feel uncomfortable or unsure about how or when to use an essential oil, conduct as much research as possible before determining whether that oil has a place in your self-care plan, or find another essential oil with similar healing benefits that you feel comfortable using.
Apply essential oils as soon as symptoms arise or an injury occurs. If no improvement is noticed within three to four hours, try a different oil or blend, as every individual is biologically unique. Prominent naturopath Dr. Scott A. Johnson advises multiple methods of application be used to increase efficacy.

THE SCIENCE OF SCENTS

How Aromatherapy Works

Imagine inhaling the fragrance of a rose in full bloom on a warm summer day, or catching the scent of fresh garlic and rosemary in the kitchen, and consider how those scents bring about a shift in your state of mind. Essential oils, which contain massive concentrations of powerful plant chemicals, stimulate the subconscious with their scents, bringing feelings of alertness, happiness, calm, relaxation, or sleepiness.

Aromatherapy not only has a positive effect on the psyche and spirit by working in concert with the limbic system but it also aids in physical healing. This occurs in two ways:

Minuscule essential oil molecules are absorbed into the bloodstream via the lungs when inhaled.
These tiny molecules can be absorbed directly into the bloodstream via the skin when added to bathwater, used in body care products, or applied during a massage.

When physically applied to the body, healing essential oils help keep undesirable bacteria and viruses at bay while stimulating the immune system; they also have a powerful detoxifying effect associated with increased lymph and blood flow.

Because of its ability to positively influence emotions, aromatherapy can help mitigate the downward cycle of depression and malaise that often accompanies illness, exhaustion, and periods of prolonged physical or mental stress.

Science has proven time and again that emotional state has the power to change the body’s chemistry and that such changes in chemistry directly affect the immune system. By using aromatherapy to keep negative states of being such as stress, tension, and sleeplessness at bay, you can give your overall health a boost. Because of its ability to positively influence the body and mind, aromatherapy is an exceptional form of prevention.

Just as ingredients in medicines can vary,
so can the contents of substances labeled as
essential oils. Not all essential oils are the same.

W hile it is easy to get started with essential oils, there are some important things to be aware of before purchasing anything. Often the more research you do, the more potentially confusing information you are likely to encounter concerning quality, source, and which essential oils are best for someone who is just starting out. It is best to determine a select number of essential oils you’d like to start with, and narrow your research to those, at first, to confirm they are right for you.

If you are not sure you will like the aroma of a certain essential oil, consider taking a trip to your local health food store, where it is likely that you will be able to smell samples from different producers. You may also be able to do a patch test while at the store; if this service is offered, consider taking advantage of it.

Essential oils are sold in various quantities, and most have a shelf life of at least one year. It’s a good idea to get the smallest size to begin with. Although these tiny bottles don’t look like they contain much, you’ll be surprised at how long they last. Once you are more familiar with essential oils and know which ones you tend to use quickly, go for a larger bottle. You may save some money by doing so.

Armed with the information in this chapter, you’ll find it easy to decipher labels, and it’s likely that your shopping experience—for essential oils and the tools needed to work with them—will be targeted and successful.

NOT ALL ESSENTIAL OILS ARE EQUAL

When you read the lists of ingredients in cough syrups, sleep aids, and headache remedies, you’ll find artificial flavoring and coloring, high fructose corn syrup, and a plethora of other additives that don’t seem like they belong in substances that are meant to bring you better health. Just as ingredients in medicines can vary, so can the contents of substances labeled as essential oils. Not all essential oils are the same.

Perfumeries want consistent fragrances. Leading aromatherapy expert Maria Lis-Balchin warns that the desire for fragrance consistency often leads to adulteration with botanicals or synthetics. Top producers test for adulteration via gas chromatography (sometimes called gas-liquid chromatography) and mass spectroscopy, two separate tests capable of identifying constituents. Labels often carry the abbreviation GC-MS or GLC-MS to indicate that this testing has taken place and the essential oil has been deemed pure.

What You Need to Know Before Purchasing Essential Oils

There are several key factors to keep in mind when shopping for essential oils, each of which is discussed below.

Label information on the bottles of essential oils varies from one company to the next. Unless you are purposefully purchasing a diluted blend or a product containing essential oil as one of its ingredients, the only ingredient listed on the bottle should be the essential oil. Be wary of labels that use the words perfume oil, fragrance oil, or nature identical oil . These are indicators that the substance in the bottle is probably not 100 percent essential oil.

Dark-colored glass bottles are the standard for essential oils manufacturers. Top manufacturers use cobalt blue, green, violet, and amber bottles, often fitted with orifice reducers rather than droppers, because most droppers allow air to enter the bottle.

Look for price variance in the essential oils offered for sale by the company whose products you are considering. Production costs vary, which means the cost of the essential oils made by a company should also vary. If all the essential oils from a certain company are priced exactly alike, consider them suspect and move on to a different manufacturer’s products.

A long chain of supply is a red flag. As you compare essential oils with one another, ask a health food provider or do a little online research to learn about the chain of supply—the producer, wholesaler, mid-level distributor that bottles essential oils for different brands, and the distributor, plus the after-market sources such as online sellers that buy in bulk and resell small quantities of essential oils. The more levels involved, the greater the risk that the essential oils you receive will be adulterated with synthetic fragrances, fillers, bulking agents, and extenders, or have been reconstituted.

Folded or concentrated essential oils produce a stronger scent. These are often best for candles, soaps, household cleaners, and aromatherapy recipes that will be rinsed off or diffused. Rectified or redistilled essential oils are those that have been put through a vacuum once or more to remove impurities; these are perfectly fine for all applications, though you will find that they tend to be costlier than standard essential oils. Certain rectified essential oils are stronger than their counterparts that have been produced using standard techniques, so check specific precautionary information if you are considering using any of these.

The choice of whether to buy organics is up to you. Organic essential oils are grown without herbicides and pesticides, and plants do absorb these substances. There are peripheral considerations regarding the effect that herbicides and pesticides have on the environment. Let your own ideals be your guide.

Get to know organics. There is quite a bit of confusion concerning organic produce and other certified organic products. In the United States, the Department of Agriculture (USDA) holds organic producers to high standards, benefiting the environment and end consumers. Using organic essential oils whenever they are available can reduce your exposure to pesticides, herbicides, and other synthetic substances.

Essential Oil Grades Explained

While some companies market their essential oils with terms such as aromatherapy grade or therapeutic grade , there is no official grading system for essential oils. These terms vary from one company to the next and are used as a marketing technique. Overlook these labels and focus on other aspects of the essential oil in question:

Is the company known for quality products?

Are the essential oils being offered GC-MS tested?

Are prices in line with similar products offered by other companies? Though there is some pricing variation, most companies price the same type of essential oil within a few dollars. Beware if prices seem extraordinarily low.

Is there other label information, such as the plant’s Latin name and common name?

CHOOSING WHICH TYPE OF ESSENTIAL OILS TO USE

The essential oils that are best for another person might not be the best for you. For example, if you are allergic to a particular plant, you will most likely be allergic to essential oil made from this plant, as shown in a six-year German study in which those who were allergic to chamomile were also proven to be allergic to chamomile essential oil.

There are hundreds of essential oils to choose from. As you decide which essential oils to purchase first, keep the following points in mind:

Determine which ailments you want to treat, and look for essential oils that are effective in treating these ailments.

If there is a specific recipe you plan to use, gather all the ingredients.

If the essential oils are for a baby or young child, be sure to select those that are suitable and safe.

Consider whether you want to use essential oils for first aid, and choose one or two that will suit your purposes.

PHOTOSENSITIZING PLANTS

Keep Your Skin Safe

According to Dr. Jillian Stansbury, citrus species aren’t the only plants that can lead to phototoxicity. There are many other useful plants that can contribute to sun sensitivity and subsequent damage when consumed or used within 12 hours of sun exposure. Some of these find their way into essential oils, while others might be ingested during a meal or snack.

Angelica

Anise

Bergamot

Celery

Cumin

Dill

Ginger

Grapefruit

Lemon

Lemon verbena

Lime

Mandarin orange

Orange

Parsnips

Tagetes

Tangerine

Yuzu

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

When working with essential oils, it’s vital that you use appropriate tools and equipment. These will help ensure that you get the most from your investment, plus they will help prevent undesirable reactions such as those that occur between essential oils and plastic. The tools and equipment fall under two categories: indispensable and nice to have.

Indispensable

Dark-colored glass containers. Dark-colored glass containers are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, ranging from a single dram to several ounces. Using glass (rather than plastic or metal) ensures that the essential oils do not react with their containers, spoiling the entire contents. Also, using dark-colored glass prevents sunlight from deteriorating the essential oils. These containers are crucial if you plan to make any of your own blends or purchase large quantities of certain oils and store them in smaller bottles inside first aid kits.

Glass bowls. Glass bowls such as those made for food preparation are ideal for preparing aromatherapy products. It’s fine to use the ones you may already have in your kitchen; be sure they are perfectly clean before using them with essential oils. Wood, plastic, and metal bowls should be avoided.

Glass droppers. It’s very difficult to clean essential oil residue from the inside of a plastic dropper, which is why glass ones are superior to plastic. These are necessary for measuring oils for blends and recipes. Clean them thoroughly after each use, and consider assigning each type of essential oil its own dropper.

Labels. Labels are essential for preventing mix-ups. If you don’t want to spring for specially designed essential oil labels, you can use something as simple as masking tape and a permanent marker to differentiate the blends you create from one another.

Nice to Have

Dark-colored plastic containers. These containers are ideal for storing diluted homemade recipes such as shampoo, conditioner, room spray, and many cleaning products. Since the essential oils in most of these recipes are extremely diluted, your preparations won’t interact with the plastic containers. These containers also give homemade products an appealing look and are nice for gift giving.

Diffuser. A diffuser distributes a consistent spray of essential oils. These small, quiet appliances are a handy tool in any aromatherapy kit.

Glass mixing rods. Designed for mixing chemicals and other substances that react with metal or plastic, these slender rods are useful for combining essential oils and for stirring recipes containing large quantities of essential oil. A metal spoon, fork, or whisk may be used, if needed, but plastic utensils ought to be avoided.

Notebook. It is a good idea to designate a small notebook or journal for keeping track of basic information about the essential oils you use and how they affect you and your family. You can also use it for making notes about blends you create and for making treatment notes. This doesn’t have to be fancy—an inexpensive spiral notebook will work perfectly.

Pendant. One of the easiest ways to enjoy the benefits of essential oil inhalation is with an aromatherapy pendant. They are available in a number of styles, colors, and configurations to suit your taste. Different pendants use different amounts of essential oil, so be sure to follow the instructions that come with the pendant. Pendants and pendant kits are available online and in some health food stores.

Small funnels. Tiny funnels measuring about two inches across at their widest points are typically offered for laboratory use, but as they’re ideal for use with essential oils, you’ll find them for sale at sites offering aromatherapy tools. They are convenient when pouring oils from one bottle to another to prevent waste. If you decide to purchase inexpensive plastic funnels rather than more costly glass ones, be sure to clean them thoroughly after each use to prevent essential oil residue from eating the plastic.

Storage box. A sturdy, padded storage box is ideal for insulating your essential oils, preventing breakage, and preventing light from penetrating essential oil bottles. This can be something as simple as a small bin lined with a few tea towels, or as elaborate as one of the specially constructed boxes available for sale on an aromatherapy site. While it’s not necessary to store your oils in a box, particularly when you’re just starting out, doing so will keep you organized while protecting your investment.

STORING TIPS AND INSTRUCTIONS

Although essential oils will not turn rancid as oils containing fatty acids will, they do deteriorate and oxidize, losing their therapeutic properties over time. By storing your essential oils properly, you will prevent premature deterioration.

Store essential oils in glass bottles. Because essential oils are volatile, they will often react with plastic, causing contamination.

Keep your essential oils cool. Exposure to heat causes essential oils to deteriorate rapidly. According to prominent aromatherapy expert Robert Tisserand, essential oils that are kept in the refrigerator last as much as twice as long as those kept at room temperature. Allow refrigerated essential oils to come to room temperature before using them.

Prevent exposure to light. Light also causes essential oils to deteriorate, with sunlight being the worst offender due to its warmth.

Do not leave droppers in essential oil bottles. Even glass droppers allow small amounts of air to enter essential oil bottles, exposing them to contaminants and causing them to deteriorate. Plastic droppers sometimes dissolve in the essential oil when left in place, ruining the whole bottle. Use screw-top caps.

Cap oils tightly when not in use. Because of their volatility, essential oils evaporate rapidly if not capped tightly between uses.

Store carrier oils in the refrigerator. Carrier oils are delicate and can go rancid within a few months if exposed to heat. Keep them refrigerated when not in use and allow them to come to room temperature between eight and twelve hours before use.

Keep essential oils away from open flames. Essential oils are highly flammable and should be stored away from open flames.

Be aware of each essential oil’s shelf life. Check the shelf life for each essential oil you purchase and use it accordingly. Some oils retain potency for as little as six months, while others remain fully potent for years. Noted aromatherapist K. G. Stiles warns that when essential oils begin to thicken, smell more acidic, or take on a cloudy appearance, they are beginning to oxidize.

WHAT ARE CARRIER OILS?

Sometimes referred to as fixed oils or natural base oils, carrier oils are used for diluting essential oils prior to application. Most are made with vegetables, nuts, or seeds, and all are excellent for creating natural massage oils that nourish and moisturize the skin while imparting an essential oil’s specific benefits.

Almond oil: Often labeled as sweet almond oil, almond oil has a light, faintly sweet aroma and a faint yellow hue. Rich in vitamins B₂ , B₆ , and E, it is popular for use in commercially prepared lotions, creams, and massage oils. It is suitable for sensitive skin, but it is not a good choice for anyone with allergies to tree nuts. If considering using it for a baby or young child not previously exposed to almonds, conduct a patch test by placing a single drop of almond oil on the child’s arm and waiting 24 hours for signs of an adverse reaction.

Aloe vera oil: A fast-penetrating moisturizer, aloe vera oil is made with a base oil and macerated aloe. Offering the healing power of aloe, this carrier oil is popular for use in preparations meant for wounds or burns. While aloe vera gel and aloe vera juice are widely available, aloe vera oil may prove difficult to find in some areas.

Use aloe to speed healing, unless you are allergic to latex. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, aloe vera has been widely studied and has been proven beneficial in speeding the healing process. Because of its natural latex content, it is not recommended for anyone with a latex allergy.

Avocado oil: A very rich carrier oil with a sweet, nutty aroma, avocado oil has a thick consistency and a deep, olive green color. It is highly nourishing to skin and hair alike, making it a good addition to body creams and conditioners, but its heavy texture can be off-putting.

Calendula oil: Be sure not to confuse calendula carrier oil with calendula essential oil. This rich oil is made with various vegetable oils that have been infused with calendula blossoms, and typically has a pleasant aroma. Rich in vitamins A, B₁ , B₂ , and B₆ , it is ideal for salves and lotions meant to nourish and heal compromised skin. Not all calendula oils are the same, so conduct some research prior to purchase to ensure the base oil is one that appeals to you. Common base oils include olive oil, sunflower oil, and jojoba oil.

Evening primrose oil: High in fatty acids, including omega-6 essential fatty acids, evening primrose oil is an excellent choice for use in skin care preparations such as those intended for the treatment of eczema. Because it is more costly than most other carrier oils, it is usually blended with less expensive oils before the addition of essential oil.

Grape seed oil: A thin, lightweight oil that imparts a glossy sheen to skin, grape seed oil has a very pale green-yellow tinge and a slightly sweet, nutty aroma. Although this carrier oil is an excellent one for use in massage oils and for general aromatherapy use, it is often solvent extracted, meaning chemical residue may be present. Choose a brand that has been expeller pressed.

Hazelnut oil: Hazelnut oil has a light, sweet, nutty aroma and a pale yellow color. Because it penetrates rapidly, it is a good choice for all-around aromatherapy use and is popular for making massage oil designed for those who suffer from oily skin. If you are looking for a highly moisturizing carrier oil, you may want to select something other than hazelnut oil, as it has a slightly astringent quality.

Jojoba oil: Unique among carrier oils for its thick, waxy feel, jojoba oil has a distinct aroma that most people find pleasant. Highly moisturizing and ideal for massage, it is much more stable than most carrier oils and has an indefinite shelf life. It is an excellent choice for anyone with acne-prone skin, but it should be used conservatively, as applying an excessive amount can lead to shiny, oily-looking skin. If applying it to your face, use just four or five drops at a time.

Macadamia oil: A light yellow color with a sweet, nutty aroma, macadamia oil is thicker than many other carrier oils, making it quite slippery and excellent for formulating massage oils. While its fragrance is appealing, it can be overpowering.

Olive oil: Although olive oil typically costs less than most other carrier oils and has a relatively long shelf life of up to two years, it is among the least favorite oils available. Thick and somewhat greasy, its olive aroma can be overpowering. If you are in a bind, olive oil will work for aromatherapy; just be certain you have chosen a cold-pressed extra-virgin or virgin olive oil.

Sesame oil: A staple in Asian cuisine, sesame oil has a distinct aroma that can be overpowering when used in aromatherapy blends. For this reason, it is typically blended with other carrier oils prior to use. Thick, viscous, and slow to absorb, it is excellent for massage.

Walnut oil: According to Dr. Cathy Wong, walnut oil may aid in treating skin conditions such as psoriasis, warts, and canker sores. As this carrier oil is rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids, it is also an excellent choice for nourishing and replenishing dry, damaged skin. It is not suitable for anyone with a walnut allergy; if you are allergic to other tree nuts, it may cause irritation or an allergic reaction.

Wheat germ oil: With its dark color and strong aroma, wheat germ oil can quickly overpower aromatherapy blends, but its ability to nourish skin makes it a favorite for use in facial moisturizers and body creams. Be sure to choose expeller-pressed wheat germ oil over that which has been solvent extracted, and keep it refrigerated to prevent early spoilage. Even under ideal conditions, wheat germ oil has a shelf life of just about two months.

SAFETY FIRST

Although many essential oils are generally considered safe by the FDA, it is important to take safety into consideration, no matter which of them you decide to use. Each of the essential oil entries found in Chapter Five includes safety information; refer to this section for more in-depth details as needed.

Avoid abortifacient essential oils if pregnant. Abortifacient essential oils are strong emmenagogues that can bring on severe bleeding and abortion. These oils should not be considered as a means to terminate a pregnancy, as they are innately toxic and will cause harm to the pregnant woman. They include:

Mugwort

Parsley seed

Pennyroyal

Rue

Sage

Sassafras

Savin

Tansy

Thuja

Wormwood

Avoid contact with banned essential oils. Because of toxicity, certain essential oils have been banned by the International Fragrance Association, whose standards, according to their website, “form the basis for the globally accepted and recognized risk management system for the safe use of fragrance ingredients.” These essential oils have been shown to contain carcinogens, cause irritation, or lead to excessive sensitization, and are not suitable for aromatherapy use. See the sidebar on Dangerous Plants for a list of banned essential oils (here ).

Cancer patients should use essential oils with care. If you have cancer, consult your doctor concerning the use of any essential oils, even for massage. Although many of them can be therapeutic, the National Cancer Institute cautions that some essential oils should be avoided by those suffering from cancer. These include:

Aniseed

Basil

Bay

Cinnamon

Clove

Fennel

Ho leaf

Laurel

Nutmeg

Star anise

If you have an estrogen-dependent form of cancer, avoid contact with the following essential oils, as well:

Citronella

Eucalyptus

Lavender

Lemongrass

Verbena

Those who suffer from melanoma and other forms of skin cancer should also avoid contact with citrus essential oils and other essential oils that have sun-sensitizing properties.

Keep essential oils out of reach of children. Although there are numerous essential oils that are safe for children and babies, essential oils should be kept out of reach of children.

Use half-strength preparations for children. With the exception of recipes formulated specifically for babies or children, assume all other recipes are formulated for adults. These recipes should be prepared at half their strength for use on anyone under age 12.

Use caution when administering steam inhalation treatments to children. Steam inhalations for those age 12 and older are typically meant to last until the solution cools, though some call for shorter treatment periods. When administering a steam inhalation treatment to anyone younger than 12 years old, keep treatments to one minute per session, and do not leave the child unattended.

Take care when using essential oils for seniors. Elderly, frail, and bedridden people are often more sensitive to essential oils than are average adults. Consider formulating treatments at half their strength to prevent skin irritation or sensitization.

Avoid emmenagogue essential oils during pregnancy. While emmenagogues do not have abortifacient qualities, they do stimulate menses and should be avoided by women who are pregnant. These include:

Angelica

Cinnamon

Clary sage

Fennel

German chamomile

Ginger

Jasmine

Juniper

Marjoram

Myrrh

Nutmeg

Peppermint

Roman chamomile

Rose

Rosemary

Some essential oils may cause drowsiness. While this is a wonderful quality for those suffering from sleeplessness, it is important to avoid certain essential oils when driving, operating machinery, or concentrating on other important tasks. Essential oils that cause drowsiness include:

Benzoin

Carnation

Clary sage

Geranium

German chamomile

Hops

Hyacinth

Lavender

Linden

Mace

Marjoram

Neroli

Nutmeg

Ormenis flower

Petitgrain

Roman chamomile

Sandalwood

Spikenard

Valerian

Vetiver

Ylang-ylang

Use caution if suffering from hypertension or cardiac disease. There are some essential oils that can calm and relax you, while others may cause a harmful increase in blood pressure or lead to heart palpitations. Research any essential oils you are considering before trying them.

If you decide to use essential oils internally, ensure you take only those that are not linked to liver toxicity. While this book does not recommend ingesting essential oils, after proper research, you may decide it is right for you. However, many essential oils that are suitable for external use are not suitable for therapeutic ingestion. These include the banned essential oils (here ) and the following:

Aniseed

Basil

Bay

Clove

Fennel

Tarragon

Practice sun safety. Many essential oils are photosensitizing, meaning they can cause skin to be more sensitive to the sun or any other source of ultraviolet light. Sunburns and skin damage happen faster and more easily when photosensitizing essential oils are present, so use these at least 12 hours before planned exposure. See here for a complete list of photosensitizing essential oils.

DANGEROUS PLANTS

Essential Oils to Avoid

The planet is teeming with plants, both beneficial and dangerous. While the following is by no means a complete list of the world’s toxic plants, it contains those that are sometimes formulated into essential oils and offered for sale, often by unscrupulous dealers. These should be neither ingested nor applied topically, even when heavily diluted.

Bitter almond —contains cyanide

Boldo —causes convulsions

Cade oil crude * —carcinogenic

Camphor —may be inhaled; can cause toxicity if ingested

Cassia —irritates mucus membrane and can cause severe skin rash

Costus root * —sensitizer

Elecampane * —sensitizer

Fig leaf absolute * —sensitizer

Horseradish * —irritates mucus membranes, eyes, and skin

Jaborandi leaf * —toxic

Mustard * —irritates mucus membranes, eyes, and skin; toxic

Nightshade * —toxic

Non-distilled Peru balsam * —sensitizer

Pennyroyal * —causes acute liver and lung damage; abortifacient

Rue * —abortifacient, irritant, neurotoxin, toxic

Sassafras * —carcinogenic, can be lethal

Savin * —abortifacient, sensitizer, skin irritant, toxic

Southernwood * —toxic

Stinging nettle * —toxic

Stryax gum * —sensitizer

Tansy —contains high levels of the poison thujone; causes convulsion, uterine bleeding, organ failure, respiratory arrest, and death

Tea absolute * —sensitizer

Thuja —abortifacient, neurotoxin, poison

Verbena * —sensitizer

Wormseed * —causes liver and kidney toxicity; neurotoxin

Wormwood * —contains the poison thujone; abortifacient, causes convulsions, leads to unpleasant hallucinations, neurotoxin

* Indicates banned oil

The manner in which you apply
essential oils has a direct effect on the
way they impact your body and mind.

E ssential oils can enhance your daily life in a plethora of ways. The same essential oils you rely on for first aid can often be used to improve your indoor environment by freshening air naturally. In addition, they often prove useful for treating minor illnesses, and can be added to body care products such as lotion, shampoo, and conditioner.

The manner in which you apply essential oils has a direct effect on the way they impact your body and mind. If, for example, you are using lavender essential oil to promote restful sleep, you may use it in a bath, apply it in a balm, diffuse some in your bedroom as you are falling asleep, or try several methods in combination to enhance efficacy. If you are using that same lavender essential oil to speed healing, you might formulate a synergistic essential oil blend or salve to keep on hand for minor burns and wounds, or you might just apply a simpler formula made with a few drops of lavender essential oil blended with a small amount of your favorite carrier oil.

Essential oils are most often used topically or inhaled. Topical application is typically combined with inhalation by default. For example, when you use an essential oil as part of a massage oil, you benefit from absorption as well as from inhalation.

Many of the essential oils listed in Chapter Four may be used for a variety of purposes. This chapter contains detailed information about application methods as well as guidelines for the safe, effective use of each method.

AROMATIC

Aromatic methods of essential oil application are those in which single essential oils or blends are inhaled in some way. Some methods expose your body to more essential oil than others; choose the one that best meets your needs, whether you hope to relax, concentrate better, or accomplish some other goal.

Diffuse rosemary essential oil to enhance memory. A team of psychologists at England’s Northumbria University conducted a series of tests, proving that inhaling rosemary essential oil enhanced memory functions. Diffuse this appealing essential oil while working or studying to reap the benefits.

Diffusion

One of the simplest, most popular methods of aromatic essential oil application is diffusion. There are many different types of diffusers on the market, and not all are created equal.

Guidelines: To get the most from diffused essential oils, choose a cold-air diffuser that uses ultrasonic vibrations to break the oils up into a fine mist, which remains suspended in the air for hours, freshening while treating you to the therapeutic properties of the essential oil of your choice. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions for the amount and use of an essential oil.

Benefits: Once suspended in air, an essential oil’s aroma helps enhance a room’s atmosphere while simultaneously providing you with its specific physical or emotional benefits. If you’re hoping to create cheerful, harmonious feelings, for example, tangerine or lemon essential oil will help you do so. If you are hoping to clear airborne pathogens, diffusing eucalyptus essential oil or an antibacterial blend will prove effective.
Essential oils don’t simply mask odors as many commercially produced chemical air fresheners do; instead, they interact with the molecules that our bodies interpret as odors. Even if you have no specific emotional or health need, consider diffusing essential oils in your home or work environment on a regular basis. Doing so will, at the very least, relax your mind, alleviate tension, and make indoor air more enjoyable to breathe.

Safety: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a diffuser. Most warn against using water, vegetable oil, commercially formulated massage oil, or overly thick, undiluted essential oils, as these may clog or damage the diffuser. Finally, you should never diffuse clove or cinnamon essential oils unless they are part of a blend specifically indicated for diffusion. These powerful, spice-based essential oils contain compounds capable of burning the nasal membranes if micro-mist is inhaled.

Direct Inhalation

Certain essential oils are suitable for direct inhalation, which is a powerfully effective yet simple method for obtaining the many benefits of aromatherapy.

Guidelines: Direct inhalation is easy to do. Begin by placing a few drops of a single essential oil or blend in the palm of your hand, then rub your hands together. Cup them over your nose and mouth, and inhale deeply. Take three to five deep breaths, then relax for at least three minutes before continuing with your day. If you are not comfortable with applying essential oils directly to your hands but want to enjoy the benefits of direct inhalation, you can simply cup your hands around the bottle and take three to five deep breaths. Cap the bottle before taking a few minutes to relax.

Benefits: Direct inhalation offers close-up exposure to an essential oil’s volatile molecules, allowing you to experience its effects immediately. Benefits vary from one essential oil to the next; these may include a positive influence on emotion, improved learning, reduced appetite, improvement in certain bodily functions, and more.

Safety: Ensure that you check an essential oil’s profile before direct inhalation, as some essential oils are not suitable for use with this method of application. Do not allow essential oils to come into contact with the eyes during direct inhalation.

Beat respiratory problems with essential oils. Dr. Joie Power recommends inhaling essential oils to combat respiratory illness, as this method brings the essential oils into contact with respiratory tract tissues. Eucalyptus, lemon, rosemary, and tea tree essential oils are a few to try.

Hot Water Vapors

If you are suffering from a cold, allergies, or other ailment that affects the upper respiratory system, you may want to try a remedy that calls for topping a bowl of steaming hot water with a few drops of essential oil. These treatments are simple, effective, and inexpensive.

Guidelines: Using hot water vapors to deliver essential oils to your respiratory system is simple. Procure a bowl, the essential oil of your choice, a towel to place beneath the bowl to catch any drips, and a towel large enough to drape over your head, shoulders, and the bowl. After placing the first towel on the table, set the bowl on top of it. Pour steaming hot water into the bowl and add three to five drops of essential oil. Sitting comfortably in front of the bowl, drape the second towel over your head, shoulders, and the bowl. With your eyes closed, breathe the vapors for at least one minute or until the steam subsides, if preferred. Emerge from the towel for fresh air as needed. It is advisable that you keep a box of tissues close at hand during this treatment, as it encourages sinus drainage. Blow your nose as needed throughout the process.

Benefits: When delivered to the respiratory system via steam, certain essential oils aid in relieving congestion and decreasing mucus membrane inflammation. Sore throat, blocked sinuses, irritation, and dryness are also alleviated during the process of inhaling essential oils and hot water vapors.

Safety: Emerge from the towel for fresh air as needed. If you feel that the water vapors are too hot, allow the water to cool somewhat before continuing. If you begin to feel lightheaded or nauseous while using this remedy, stop immediately. Keep your eyes closed while breathing the vapors, as the essential oil in the steam may irritate your eyes. Children younger than 12 years old may use this method for up to one minute per treatment. Never leave a child unattended while administering this remedy.

HOW TO DIFFUSE

Essential oil diffusers are versatile and easy to use. While you’ll want to follow the instructions that accompany your diffuser, you’ll find this step-by-step guide useful as you venture deeper into the world of aromatherapy.

Read the instructions that accompany your diffuser, and familiarize yourself with its parts.
Add the required amount of essential oil to the diffuser.
Decide on a location for the diffuser. A high shelf or mantle might be the ideal place to set the diffuser; this will allow for wide distribution of the essential oil while keeping it out of reach of small children or curious pets.
Activate the diffuser.
Enjoy the aromatherapy benefits of the essential oil you have chosen. You may want to meditate, relax with your eyes closed, or listen to some music while breathing deeply and regularly.
Once finished with the diffusion process, clean your diffuser following the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Store the diffuser when it’s not being used. This will keep it clean while preventing accidental damage.

Humidifier or Vaporizer

If you don’t have a diffuser, consider using a humidifier to disperse essential oil throughout your living or work space.

Guidelines: To effectively use essential oils with a humidifier, place several drops of the oil of your choice on a tissue or cloth. Place this in front of the humidifier’s air intake so the essential oil’s molecules blend with the water vapor being emitted.

Benefits: Humidifiers and vaporizers can be used throughout your home to make air more comfortable to breathe, particularly during the winter months. Some people enjoy the background noise of these machines, and others find they help soothe allergy and sinus symptoms. Adding essential oils scents the air while exposing those who breathe it to the specific benefit of the essential oil being used.

Safety: Do not use cinnamon or clove essential oils with a humidifier or vaporizer, as these oils can burn the mucus membranes lining the nasal passages, sinuses, and airway.

Some sources advise users to put essential oils directly into vaporizers or humidifiers. This is a less effective method of dispersal, and prolonged use of essential oils can cause the machines’ plastic parts to become sticky or degrade.

Relax with an essential oil massage. Massage is among the most beneficial ways to experience indirect inhalation. A 2013 study conducted at Korea’s Eulji University Hospital concluded that high blood pressure sufferers who received massages with essential oils experienced significant reduction in blood pressure along with improved sleep quality.

Indirect Inhalation

Any method of inhaling essential oils other than direct inhalation is a form of indirect inhalation. Some examples include diffusion, water vapors, or even just putting a few drops of essential oil on a cotton ball and placing it near your laptop’s exhaust fan.

Guidelines: When choosing an indirect inhalation method, select the one that works best for the situation at hand. Try different methods to see which you prefer.

Benefits: With indirect inhalation, you enjoy fresher indoor air along with enhanced feelings of overall well-being. You may also experience some therapeutic effects of the essential oil you have chosen to use. Sensitive individuals may find that indirect inhalation methods suit them better than direct inhalation.

Safety: Follow instructions carefully after choosing an indirect inhalation method. Ensure that you keep all essential oils and equipment out of reach of young children.

Vent or Fan

Because vents and fans promote air circulation, they are ideal for dispersing essential oils throughout large spaces.

Guidelines: Using essential oils with a vent or fan is very easy—simply place several drops of essential oil on a cotton ball, then put the cotton ball in close proximity to the vent or fan of your choice.

Benefits: Vents and fans can be found in all kinds of places, including homes, offices, cars, and hotel rooms. You can enjoy the benefits that accompany the indirect inhalation of the essential oil of your choice anywhere, so long as you have a few basic, portable supplies with you.

Safety: It’s a good idea to set the cotton ball on a small glass or ceramic saucer to prevent the essential oil from coming into contact with surfaces that could be adversely affected. Be sure to keep cotton balls and other items used with vents and fans out of reach of children and pets.

Internal

Essential oils may seem innocuous, but they are extremely potent. Keeping in mind that a single drop of essential oil contains the therapeutic power of a much larger number of plants, it is vital that you understand the potential harm that could result from ingesting essential oil without first consulting a doctor who is familiar with using it safely.

It is true that small amounts of essential oil can be used in culinary applications, and it is also true that the French method of aromatherapy calls for the ingestion of carefully prepared compounds containing essential oils. When used internally, essential oils must be taken with great care, and physician oversight is highly recommended. The amounts typically prescribed for internal use are minuscule—usually between one and three drops per dose depending on the illness, the essential oil, and the patient’s personal profile. Most of these protocols recommend that essential oils be ingested for short periods only, discouraging prolonged use.

Essential oils are typically diluted with warm water, soy milk, or rice milk prior to ingestion when prescribed for oral use, as certain oils such as oregano and cinnamon can cause stinging or burning and potentially cause damage to the mouth and esophagus.

Potential side effects of ingestion include poisoning caused by an overdose or adulteration, along with a stinging sensation in the mouth, indigestion or an upset stomach, and diarrhea. Stomach pain, chest pain, severe nausea, and grogginess might also occur. It is vital that you be aware of the potential problems that ingesting specific essential oils could cause, and to seek the advice of a qualified health care professional who can determine whether the ingestion of essential oils is appropriate for you.

For safety reasons, this book does not include any remedies that involve ingesting essential oils.

TOPICAL

Applying essential oils and products containing essential oils to your skin allows them to quickly enter the bloodstream and rapidly circulate throughout the body. Indirect inhalation typically accompanies topical application, offering an additional benefit. Depending on the reason for using an essential oil, you may apply an essential oil remedy to the affected site or you may apply essential oils to certain pressure points or reflexology points.

Acupressure

Acupressure involves the application of direct pressure to specific points on the body. Intended to aid in pain relief, help eliminate headaches, stop nausea, and alleviate other problems, it is part of Chinese medicine. Although typically accomplished with pressure alone, acupressure is sometimes enhanced by the addition of essential oils.

Guidelines: Acupressure is also referred to as acupuncture without needles, and at least a basic knowledge of the body’s meridians is necessary for successful treatment. Beginners can easily learn which pressure points to use to encourage relaxation, release tension, and stimulate healing. When choosing essential oils for use in acupressure, be certain to select those that are suitable for addressing the problem at hand.

Benefits: When combining essential oils and acupressure, you benefit not just from the properties of the essential oil you choose but also from the correct application of the chosen acupressure techniques.

Safety: While acupressure is a simple, straightforward process, it’s vital that you learn how to use it appropriately before implementing treatments. The body’s underlying structures are delicate and can be easily damaged, so err on the side of caution when considering treatment options.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is the practice of inserting specialized needles into specific points along the body’s meridians, after which they are sometimes manipulated manually or via electrical stimulation. Only a certified acupuncturist should employ this method of treatment.

Guidelines: Seek an acupuncturist who is willing to use essential oils during therapy. While some professionals avoid the use of essential oils, others use them extensively.

Benefits: The benefits of acupuncture are numerous; it is used to treat a vast array of health conditions, ranging from chronic pain to infertility. When an acupuncturist chooses essential oils to incorporate into treatment, he or she selects those most likely to enhance health and well-being based on the condition or symptoms presented by the patient.

Safety: While most acupuncturists are certified, some individuals practice without certification. Seek a qualified acupuncturist and ensure that he or she uses appropriate sterilization techniques.

Bath

Essential oils add fragrance to baths while treating the body and mind to the unique benefits they imbue. Adding essential oils to your bathtub is one of the simplest, most pleasant ways to use them.

Guidelines: Just add three to six drops of essential oil or an essential oil blend to your bath while the water is running. This ensures that the oil blends with the water rather than simply floating on top. Soak in the tub for as long as you like and moisturize your skin after getting out.

Benefits: Taking a bath with essential oils is beneficial because the essential oils can easily penetrate the skin, and you receive the secondary benefit of indirect inhalation. The specific benefits vary depending on which essential oil or blend you add to your bathwater, and include relaxation, pain relief, and relief from cold symptoms such as congestion and sinus pressure.

Safety: Essential oils are often added to baths along with a carrier oil, which moisturizes skin during the bathing process. Be careful not to slip when getting in and out of the bathtub.

Cold Packs

Cold packs reduce inflammation caused by strains and sprains, and they’re also ideal for cooling off naturally in hot weather. Adding essential oil increases a cold pack’s versatility and makes it more pleasurable to use.

Guidelines: Cold packs can be made of fabric and filled with rice, buckwheat, or another grain that has been mixed with eight to ten drops of the essential oil or blend of your choice. Store packs in the freezer, inside sealed storage bags. Use as needed, refreezing the cold packs after each treatment. You can make cold packs any size you like; just avoid overfilling them to ensure they remain flexible. Periodically dab a few drops of essential oil on the packs to refresh them.

Benefits: Cold packs made with essential oils are ideal for soothing headaches, easing sinus congestion, and relaxing muscle cramps. Select the essential oils you’ll be using according to your specific needs.

Safety: Essential oil cold packs are much safer than those containing dry chemicals, and they’re not as strong as ice packs. Even so, be sure not to use them over fragile or broken skin, and use caution when applying essential oil cold packs to areas with poor circulation. Keep the cold pack in place for no longer than 20 minutes per treatment.

Compresses

Hot and cold compresses are made with fabric, water, and essential oil. Very simple to prepare, they are ideal for improving circulation, reducing pain, and treating many types of minor injuries, including sprains and strains.

Guidelines: Both hot and cold compresses can be made with approximately a pint of water, four or five drops of essential oil, and a small towel or other piece of absorbent fabric. Compresses can be made with the essential oil added to the water or put directly on the skin and then covered with the compress. In the first method, after mixing the drops in the water, allow the fabric to absorb the water and essential oil, then wring it out, fold to size, and place the compress on top of the affected area. In the second method, which is most often used with the hot compress treatments given in this book, the essential oil is placed or rubbed onto the skin and then covered with the wrung-out fabric. With both methods, the compress can be covered with plastic wrap to keep it in place and prevent drips; you may also cover it with another towel or a self-gripping bandage to keep it in place. Leave the compress on until it reaches body temperature.

Benefits: Hot essential oil compresses are ideal for treating pain, including chronic muscle discomfort, rheumatism, menstrual cramps, and toothaches. Cold essential oil compresses are useful for soothing headaches and cooling fevers, and they’re also ideal for treating bruises, swelling, sprains, and inflammation.

Safety: Since the essential oil in a compress will be in contact with your skin, use only those oils you’ve tested or used in the past. Ensure that hot compresses are not so hot that they cause discomfort or burns.

HOW TO MAKE A COMPRESS

Hot and cold compresses are made and used in the same manner, either with the essential oil being placed into the water or applied directly to the skin. For hot compresses, use very hot water (but not so hot that it will burn your skin or cause discomfort). For cold compresses, use extremely cold water that has been kept in the refrigerator or strained through ice in a colander or cocktail shaker.

1 pint hot or iced water

3 to 5 drops essential oil

Pour the hot or cold water into a wide-mouth bowl.
Add your chosen essential oil to the water or apply it directly to the skin.
Fold a hand towel into a compact square with at least three layers.
Lay the towel gently on top of the water and allow the towel to absorb as much water as possible.
Wring the excess water from the towel back into the bowl.
Smooth out the wrinkles in the towel and lay it on top of the affected area.
If desired, use a layer of plastic wrap to secure the compress in place. Ensure the plastic wrap completely encases the compress.
Apply a self-adhesive bandage over the plastic wrap to keep it in place.
Leave the compress on the affected area until it reaches body temperature.
Remove the compress and repeat the treatment as many times as necessary for relief.

Direct Application

Applying essential oils or a remedy containing essential oils directly to an affected area is an effective way to manage issues such as cuts, bruises, fungal infections, and other problems that affect the skin as well as pains beneath the skin’s surface.

Guidelines: Direct application is ideal for situations in which pain relief or antibacterial protection is required. Essential oils blended in carrier oil, pure or neat essential oils, and sprays, salves, and ointments are the most common remedies for minor injuries, rashes, burns, insect bites, and more. When planning which essential oils to include in your first aid kit, conduct patch tests to ensure that specific remedies will help promote healing rather than cause harm.

Benefits: With direct application, essential oils are allowed to penetrate the skin quickly. This is a rapid, effective method for treating a wide array of ailments.

Safety: Conduct a patch test before direct application. It’s helpful to test new essential oils as soon as you purchase them so that you’ll be able to use them with confidence whenever the need arises. Keep essential oils away from eyes and mucus membranes. If such exposure occurs, rinse the affected area with milk to neutralize the oil. In most cases, essential oils should not be directly applied to blisters or damaged skin; exceptions include those essential oils that heal and soothe skin. Never apply essential oils directly to second- or third-degree burns.

Eliminate tension headaches with peppermint essential oil. A study reported by the University of Maryland Medical Center showed that applying a solution of 10 percent peppermint essential oil to the temples was as effective at relieving tension headaches as acetaminophen. Dilute one drop of peppermint essential oil with nine drops of carrier oil and massage the blend into the temples for quick relief.

Layering

Layering essential oils is different from creating a blend. In layering, you apply one essential oil, wait for it to be absorbed, then apply the second oil to the same area. Some treatments call for layering more than two essential oils.

Guidelines: Apply the first essential oil to the area to be treated, using an average of one or two drops. Allow the essential oil to be completely absorbed, then apply the second essential oil on top of the first layer. Wait for it to be absorbed before applying a third essential oil, if using more than two. Continue in this manner.

Benefits: Layering essential oils allows you to treat more than one issue at a time. If you have a sprain with bruising, one essential oil might be used to treat the pain, a second essential oil might be used to address swelling, and a third essential oil might be applied to minimize bruising.

Safety: Ensure that you have conducted a patch test for each of the essential oils you plan to use. Use only one or two drops of each essential oil per treatment.

Massage

Essential oils maximize a massage’s healing potential by increasing the calming or energizing effect of the massage technique used. A good carrier oil is indispensable for massage.

Guidelines: Use 12 to 15 drops of an essential oil or essential oil blend per ounce of carrier oil. It’s a good idea to make small batches and use them up within a few weeks, as this will ensure efficacy and freshness of the massage oil. Bring your massage oil with you to your therapist, or learn some basic massage techniques with a partner and take turns working on each other.

Benefits: With essential oils, massage becomes more than just a relaxing or energizing method for soothing discomfort and encouraging relaxation. The carrier oil nourishes and softens skin while enabling smooth, even massage strokes, and the essential oil is absorbed into the body.

Safety: Even though essential oils are well diluted during a massage, it’s best to ensure that you have conducted a patch test with any essential or carrier oils you plan to incorporate into a massage oil.

Shower

Essential oils can be used in the shower, adding fragrance while providing aromatherapy benefits. Add them to unscented shampoos, conditioners, and body washes, or just place a few drops of the desired essential oil on a washcloth to enhance the aromatherapy experience.

Guidelines: Create pleasant, uniquely scented body washes, shampoos, and conditioners by adding 12 to 15 drops of an essential oil to each ounce of unscented product. There are also many wonderful recipes available for formulating your own natural bath and body products. To enhance the effectiveness of the essential oil you have chosen, place three to five drops of an essential oil on a damp washcloth and place that on your chest while in the shower, or place the washcloth on the floor of the shower. The heat of the shower will carry the essential oil’s vapors into your respiratory system; breathe deeply while relaxing. When you have finished showering, take a moment to rub your legs, arms, and torso with the washcloth, making gentle circular movements and working your way toward your heart.

Benefits: The benefits of using essential oils in the shower depend greatly upon the oil you use. Eucalyptus essential oil will help clear your sinuses if you are congested; rosemary or spearmint essential oil will help energize you in the morning; lavender essential oil will promote relaxation at bedtime. These are just a few examples: Your options are nearly endless.

Safety: As with all applications, be sure you do not have sensitivity to the essential oils you choose before using them in the shower. Be careful not to slip in the shower when using essential oils blended with a carrier oil.

ESSENTIAL MASSAGE TECHNIQUES

There are many massage techniques designed to energize or relax the body. Whether you are massaging your own body or administering a massage to someone else, you’ll find that these simple techniques will ensure the massage brings comfort and healing to the recipient.

12 to 15 drops essential oil or blended essential oil

1 ounce carrier oil in a bottle fitted with a lid

In a small glass bowl, add the essential oil or blended essential oil and carrier oil, and stir to combine.
Set up the massage location. Aim to create a spa-like atmosphere complete with relaxing music. Ensure you are able to move around the area where the massage is being administered.
Have the recipient sit or lie comfortably on a sheet.
Rub a dime-size amount of massage oil between your hands to warm it.
Apply the massage oil to the portion of the recipient’s body that requires attention.
Give firm enough pressure so you feel the muscle moving under the skin.
Using even strokes, massage slowly. When applying pressure, avoid contact with joints and bones.
Use additional oil as needed; dry areas such as knees, elbows, and feet often absorb oil quickly.
Have the recipient rest comfortably for a few minutes after the massage has come to an end.

WHAT AILS YOU?

CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

A BRIEF HISTORY

WHAT ARE ESSENTIAL OILS?

BASIC ESSENTIAL OIL TERMINOLOGY

THE BENEFITS OF ESSENTIAL OILS

HOW ESSENTIAL OILS ARE PRODUCED

UNDERSTANDING AROMATHERAPY

ESSENTIALS OF ESSENTIAL OILS: 15 THINGS YOU SHOULD KNOW

THE SCIENCE OF SCENTS

How Aromatherapy Works

NOT ALL ESSENTIAL OILS ARE EQUAL

CHOOSING WHICH TYPE OF ESSENTIAL OILS TO USE

PHOTOSENSITIZING PLANTS

Keep Your Skin Safe

TOOLS AND EQUIPMENT

STORING TIPS AND INSTRUCTIONS

WHAT ARE CARRIER OILS?

SAFETY FIRST

DANGEROUS PLANTS

Essential Oils to Avoid

AROMATIC

HOW TO DIFFUSE

TOPICAL

HOW TO MAKE A COMPRESS

ESSENTIAL MASSAGE TECHNIQUES